Simulation

The application of automated material flow systems increases the flexibility in automated manufacturing. But there is a weak spot in the development of the control software. This article describes an engineering system for the graphical interactive development of material flow control systems. This system supports the development of the material flow systems including the generation and simulation of the control software and the simulation of the flow of material. The approach for the development of material flow systems and the functionality of the system are introduced using a case study that represents a class of automated material flow systems.

With emphasis simulation experts in research, consultancy and industry work on the vision of the Digital Factory. This catch phrase, which is especially promoted in the automotive sector, stands for a comprehensive, simulation model of real production systems and their logis-tics. One of the challenges faced by the developers in the realisation of this vision is the integration of big models. The article describes a concept, which supports the horizontal and vertical integration of simulation models.

In a highly competitive environment characterized by decreasing life cycles, lower profit margins and a stronger individualization of products enterprises are forced to adopt new strategies to stand the challenges of the market. The article describes the framework of an integrated complexity management including methods, models and information technology for the identification, the control, the reduction and the prevention of activities without any productivity in direct and indirect sectors of the supply chain.